Decision nears in Hinson case

Lisa Snedeker

Wednesday, Nov. 18, 1998 | 11:13 a.m.

A decision concerning an investigation by the district attorney's office into former North Las Vegas City Manager Linda Hinson's actions while in office is expected today.

District Attorney Stewart Bell said Tuesday that his office has received a copy of a canceled check that was holding up his decision on whether Hinson committed a crime while she was city manager.

Bell subpoenaed Hinson's bank records for a copy of a check she wrote the city for some building permits at the Kenny Way home she shares with her husband, Roger.

According to Hinson, the city lost two checks she wrote for connection fees, so she had to stop payment on them. She reissued the checks at a later date, a situation that she thinks is at the heart of the investigation.

"I took them straight to the utility department, not to the finance department," she said in an earlier interview. "I think the check that I canceled is the check they are looking for."

Hinson also refused to sign over a 30-foot right of way to the city for $1, standard procedure for anyone to receive a building permit, according to Gary Holler, director of public works.

A three-week North Las Vegas Police investigation, which was turned over to the district attorney's office, focused on the city's lack of rights of way for the property surrounding Hinson's home, according to North Las Vegas Police Lt. Mike Blackwell.

Hinson has been awaiting a decision from the district attorney concerning the allegations of misconduct since the findings from the police investigation -- purportedly prompted by Acting City Manager Pat Importuna -- were turned over to the district attorney's office last month.

A city employee for 19 years, Hinson became assistant city manager in 1988 and was promoted to city manager in 1994.

The council in July voted 4-1, with Councilman William Robinson casting the lone "no," to not renew Hinson's contract when it expired Oct. 1. The council did not give a reason for its action but placed Hinson on paid leave from July 27 through Oct. 1.

Hinson was not available for comment Tuesday.